A Visit To Noryangjin Fish Market in Seoul South Korea

I was online with Amma the same day I went to the Noryangjin fish market. She asked me what I did that day. I told her I had gone to the famous fish market in Seoul. After being silent for a few seconds, she said, “But we also have a fish market here. You can always tag along with me when I go”. Yes, I know, Ma, but it’s um.. different?

My interest in the fish market started years ago while planning my first Japan trip. I planned to go to the Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo. But, unfortunately, that didn’t happen. So I put the Noryangjin fish market in my South Korea trip itinerary (and the Jagalchi fish market in Busan).

Noryangjin Fish Market

We were greeted by the fishy smell far before we saw any shape of fish, but when we got into the Noryangjin Fish Market building. But it was worth it. Even if only to look at the live octopuses. They were alive and swimming in pails. It was squeamish-ey to look at first, but I couldn’t take my eyes off it.

My favourite was the white, dead octopus, which looked majestic. Maybe it was the princess of octopuses?

Similar to the Tsukiji fish market, the Jalagchi fish market is also one of the main tourist attractions in Seoul. And I get it. Visiting the fish market is a feast for all the senses if you can get past the smell.

When in Seoul, take the subway and get off at Noryangjin Station, Line 1 or 9, to visit the Noryangjin fish market. It was one of the most exciting places I have ever stepped into.

Go a couple of hours before lunchtime and bring your appetite. So you get to explore the fish market and be amazed by all the sea creatures from that part of the world. Then, right there and there, you can choose fresh seafood from the market and get it cooked.

Ps. Be sure to order Sannakji (live octopus) and eat it. It will be terrifying at first, questionable at second, and satisfying at the end.

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